FBI says ATM ‘jackpotting’ attacks are on the rise, and netting hackers millions in stolen cash
TL;DR
FBI reports a surge in ATM jackpotting attacks in 2025, with over 700 incidents stealing $20 million. Hackers use physical access and malware like Ploutus to control ATMs and dispense cash without affecting customer accounts.
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Source: TechCrunch
A security bulletin issued by the FBI states that hackers have ramped up their ATM jackpotting, with more than 700 attacks on cash dispensers during 2025 alone, netting at least $20 million in stolen cash. The FBI says hackers are using a mix of physical access to ATM machines, such as generic keys for unlocking front panels and accessing hard drives, and digital tools, like planting malware that can force ATMs to rapidly dispense cash in a flash. One malware, known as Ploutus, affects a variety of ATM manufacturers and cash dispensers by targeting the underlying Windows operating system that powers many ATMs. Ploutus grants the hackers full control over a compromised ATM, allowing them to issue instructions capable of tricking the dispenser into disbursing notes without drawing funds from customer accounts. Full Story